Cricket

India crushes Bangladesh to edge closer to semi-finals

India moved closer to the T20 World Cup semi-finals with a dominant 50-run victory over Bangladesh.

T20 World Cup, Antigua

  • India: 196-5 (20 overs) – Hardik Pandya 50* (27); Tanzim Hasan 2-32
  • Bangladesh: 146-8 (20 overs) – Najmul Hossain Shanto 40 (32); Kuldeep Yadav 3-19

India won by 50 runs

Hardik Pandya’s unbeaten fifty propelled India to an impressive 196-5 after they were sent in to bat in Antigua. Bangladesh struggled in their reply, managing only 146-8, with leg-spinner Kuldeep Yadav starring with figures of 3-19.

Quick bowler Tanzim Hasan’s aggressive double-wicket over and captain Najmul Hossain Shanto’s 40 were the only notable performances for Bangladesh.

This win keeps India unbeaten in the World Cup, alongside South Africa and Australia, and strengthens their position for a semi-final berth as they gain momentum approaching the knockout stages. This victory comes on the heels of a commanding performance against Afghanistan.

Virat Kohli regained form with a smooth 37, following just 29 runs in his previous four innings. Contributions from Rishabh Pant and Shivam Dube supported the explosive Hardik.

Despite a strong middle-over fightback, Bangladesh faltered in the final stages, conceding 76 runs in the last five overs as their bowlers struggled against India’s aggressive batting.

If Australia defeats Afghanistan later on Saturday night (Sunday, 01:30 BST), both Australia and India will secure semi-final spots from Group One. However, an upset win by Afghanistan would keep all four teams in contention.

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